Baked Italian Sub Sandwich Recipe
Introduction
The Best Baked Italian Sub Sandwich is a deliciously warm and melty twist on a classic deli favorite. Packed with layers of savory meats, cheese, and tangy peppers, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner. Baking it brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- ¼ lb salami
- ¼ lb ham
- ¼ lb pepperoni or capicola
- ¼ lb roast beef (optional for a meatier sub)
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup banana peppers or pepperoncini (sliced)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup Italian dressing
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice your sub rolls in half lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through; leave a hinge so they cradle the fillings. Optionally, lightly toast the insides for a crunchier base.
- Step 2: Layer the meats starting with ham, then salami, pepperoni, and roast beef if using. Add slices of cheese between the meat layers, then top with the banana peppers and thinly sliced red onion.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously on the tops of the rolls. Drizzle a bit of Italian dressing inside each sandwich for added tanginess. Wrap each sub tightly in foil.
- Step 4: Bake the wrapped sandwiches at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, until the cheese melts and the subs are heated through.
- Step 5: Carefully unwrap, slice if desired, and serve immediately while hot and melty.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, unwrap the subs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to toast the tops slightly.
- Try swapping provolone with sharp cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Add fresh basil or spinach inside before baking for a fresh herbal note.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace meats with grilled vegetables and extra cheese.
Storage
Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat wrapped in foil at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through to keep the bread soft and the cheese melted.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this sandwich?
Yes, any sturdy bread like baguettes or ciabatta works well, though traditional sub rolls or hoagie buns hold the fillings best and toast nicely.
Is it necessary to wrap the sandwich in foil before baking?
Wrapping in foil helps the sandwich heat evenly and keeps the moisture in, preventing the bread from drying out during baking. For a crunchier crust, you can unwrap it for the last few minutes of baking.
PrintBaked Italian Sub Sandwich Recipe
This Baked Italian Sub Sandwich is a warm, melty combination of classic Italian deli meats, provolone cheese, and tangy banana peppers, all toasted to perfection inside a soft sub roll. With a flavorful brush of garlic butter and Italian seasoning, then baked until gooey and delicious, this sandwich makes for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Sandwich Ingredients
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
- ¼ lb salami
- ¼ lb ham
- ¼ lb pepperoni or capicola
- ¼ lb roast beef (optional for a meatier sub)
- 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup banana peppers or pepperoncini, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup Italian dressing
Butter Mixture
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prep the Rolls: Slice your sub rolls in half lengthwise, making sure not to cut all the way through so they can hold the fillings securely. Optionally, lightly toast the insides to add a bit of crunchiness to the base of the sandwich.
- Layer the Goodness: Begin stacking the sandwich by layering ham, salami, pepperoni, and roast beef if using. Between the layers of meat, tuck in slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese. Top the meat and cheese layers with sliced banana peppers and thinly sliced red onions.
- Brush and Bake: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to make a flavorful butter mixture. Brush this butter generously over the tops of each sandwich roll. Drizzle some Italian dressing inside each sandwich to add moisture and tang. Wrap each sub individually in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sandwiches are heated through.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy: Remove the foil, slice the subs if desired, and serve immediately while hot. The warm, aromatic flavors will be sure to impress and make everyone eager for seconds.
Notes
- You can omit roast beef if you prefer a classic Italian sub or stick with the traditional three meats.
- To vary the sandwich, try adding fresh tomato slices or lettuce after baking for added freshness and texture.
- Use provolone for a more authentic Italian flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Make sure to wrap the subs tightly in foil to retain heat and moisture during baking.
- Serve with extra Italian dressing or a side of pickles for added zest.
Keywords: baked Italian sub sandwich, Italian sub, hoagie, warm Italian sandwich, melty cheese sandwich, Italian cold cuts sandwich
